If you find yourself in a political funk, disappointed by the apparent difference deficit between prominent personnel in the two dominant parties, there may be a way to find relief. I have been in such a state (perhaps, in large part due to my actual state of residence) for quite some time, disgusted by the actions and character failings of too many in political power. Throwing your hands up and accepting defeat is an attractive option, especially in Illinois, where the Democrats rule and the Republicans seem to assist. It is helpful to receive an occasional reminder that all is not necessarily lost. I got such a reminder Thursday evening.

A tireless activist who displays an unbelievable amount of perseverance, Susan Petty, asked me to attend “Save Illinois” banquet hosted by For The Good of Illinois PAC in Effingham. I reluctantly agreed to attend and arrived with very little enthusiasm. I needed a reminder. It didn’t take long to get pumped up. Susan was motoring here and there, making sure everything was in order. I saw new State Representative Brad Halbrook (new IL-110, current IL-109) and recalled the victory of the people over the entrenched double-dipping tax hiker Roger Eddy. I also saw Sen. Kyle McCarter (IL-51) and was reminded of the failed attempt by the establishment to send my current Sen. John O. Jones (IL-54) to take out the wave-making McCarter. Read the rest of this entry »